On August 31, 1997, a Cessna 185F (registration N93276) operated by Craig M. Schweitzer was involved in an aviation accident near Kotzebue, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to attempt landing on an inadequate off-airport site and the subsequent loss of control during the ground loop maneuver. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot landing a tundra tire equipped airplane on an unprepared site attempted a ground loop to avoid a drop-off, resulting in wing and stabilizer contact with the ground.
What happened
The pilot was operating an aircraft equipped with tundra tires when attempting to land on a gravel strip measuring 600 feet in length and 75 feet in width. Upon assessing the available runway, the pilot determined that the off-airport site was insufficient for a safe stop. To prevent the aircraft from continuing past the end of the strip into a drop-off, the pilot initiated a ground loop maneuver to the left.
During this evasive action, the right wing and the right stabilizer made contact with the ground surface.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to attempt landing on an inadequate off-airport site and the subsequent loss of control during the ground loop maneuver.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 31 Aug 1997 Cessna 185F accident near Kotzebue, AK?
A pilot landing a tundra tire equipped airplane on an unprepared site attempted a ground loop to avoid a drop-off, resulting in wing and stabilizer contact with the ground.
Were there any fatalities in the 31 Aug 1997 Cessna 185F accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Aug 1997 involved a Cessna 185F, registration N93276, operated by Craig M. Schweitzer, at Kotzebue, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to attempt landing on an inadequate off-airport site and the subsequent loss of control during the ground loop maneuver.
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